the tijuca national park and surrounding area are abundant in natural features, especially charming are the rivers and waterfalls that have formed over time. during the summer the park opens from 08:00 to 18:00 and there are dozens of trails leading to the many falls, where visitors are able to swim, snorkel, and relax.

local companies offer guided tours along the rivers and local knowledge is key to finding many of the waterfalls, because a number of them are hidden in the thick growth of the forest.

the water of rio dos ciganos (river of the gypsies) in jacarepaguá has formed many impressive waterfalls over the years including the cascata grande and cascata dos ciganos. some of these falls are well hidden and therefore difficult to reach but the trail that leads alongside the river is full of wildlife and vegetation.